Switzerland
Valais Canton – Only the Sky Is Higher!
A wonderful opportunity to taste the full variety of wines from Switzerland’s sunniest canton
For wine lovers, here are a few fascinating facts about the Valais region:
For wine lovers, here are a few fascinating facts about the Valais region:
66% comes from all other cantons combined.
2 Historic Birthplace of Swiss Winemaking. It was here that the traditions of Swiss winemaking were established by monks from the Abbey of Saint Maurice, who began cultivating vines on a large scale around the year 516.
3 Biodiversity Preservation. For over 20 years, the canton has operated an innovative program to protect vine diversity, helping preserve native grape varieties like Amigne, Arvine, Cornalin, Humagne and Rèze.
4 Unique Terroirs. Classic varieties (like Chardonnay, Humagne Rouge, Marsanne, Pinot Gris, Savagnin Blanc, Sylvaner and Syrah) take on distinctive character in Valais. That’s due to its immense diversity of soils, exposures and microclimates, or as the French say, terroirs. That’s why Valais wine labels often name the grape variety, not the estate or brand.
5 Heroic Winemaking in Visperterminen. This Alpine village, perched between 650 and 1,150 meters above sea level, is famed for its "heroic viticulture". It produces a unique grape called the "Pearl of the Alps" – Heida (also known as Savagnin Blanc or Traminer). One of my favourite wineries here was awarded the right to produce Heida Excellence AOC Valais, the fifth in the German-speaking part of the canton.
Tour from Milan into Valais via the Simplon Pass:
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At the beginning
- We begin with a short scenic hike, a seasonal picnic and a photo session in breathtaking spots.
- Next stop: the quaint village of Simplon Dorf, where you must try the freshly baked fragrant rye bread!
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Next we follow
- We continue through the town of Brig, which has ancient Roman thermal baths. We can include a stop there on request.
- Then we’re off to the highest vineyard in Europe, Visperterminen, for a tasting of vibrant local wines.
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Recovering
- Visit to the family winery Cave Caprice du Temps.
- During harvest season (by prior arrangement), you can even join in grape picking!
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We return through..
- Then we pass through the charming wine village of Salgesch, with a must-do wine tasting, before heading to the spa resort of Leukerbad to enjoy:
- Thermal baths
- The beauty of Alpine meadows
- Peaceful hiking trails
- Return to Milan via Lake Maggiore, stopping in the lovely town of Stresa.
Trockensteinmauern – Dry-Stone Walls in Valais
Did you know that more than 3,000 km of dry-stone walls support about 1,500 hectares of terraced vineyards in Valais?
These walls have been carefully maintained by generations of winemakers. Construction and repairs are mostly done in winter while the vines rest.
The stone walls:
• Blend harmoniously into the landscape
• Create unique microhabitats for local flora and fauna
• Allow water permeability, relieving slope pressure and ensuring longer wall durability.
Hiking Along the Terraced Vineyards!
It’s a meditative experience with spectacular views — one that truly connects you with the soul of Alpine winemaking. Join us and discover Switzerland’s most sun-drenched, high-altitude and heartfelt wine region!
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